Perhaps you've listened to the gossip or read it in magazines. A huge percentage of relationships are being instigated online these days.

For heterosexual couples, recent figures revealed dating sites sites were the second most likely outlet drawing parties together. For same-sex couples, the majority of relationships were kick-started on dating sites.

Once upon a time, the rumors went along the lines these sites merely existed for singletons who couldn't meet a potential partner in traditional dating settings, such as bars or nightclubs.

But those preconceptions are not only false, they've also been blown out the water by the sheer numbers who enjoy dating in an online environment. Literally millions upon millions across the world.

If you are considering joining in the fun, here are the risks and benefits you need to be thinking about.

Sites or apps – the convenience is immense

One of the main benefits of using dating sites is how convenient they make the activity of searching for love.

It is a straightforward process to sign up to become a member of most sites, and once you are onboard you're free to begin browsing through the profiles of available singles, from the comfort of your own home.

You can take your time to meet singles online, reaching out to those you sense the possibility of building a rapport with.

Scamming is an unfortunate possibility

One of the main risks is the possibility of falling victim to scammers. The fact you are setting yourself up in an online communication environment with a strangers means unscrupulous individuals can take advantage.

The key is never to divulge personal information. You can let a potential partner know aspects of your personality on a need-to-know basis, but if they try extracting your bank account details from you, run a mile!

You can build trust in an individual

Unlike the traditional dating outlets, such as bars where you bump into random people you know little about, Internet dating provides a secure environment where you can take time finding out all about the person at the other end of your message exchanges.

The fact their profile is up there for all to see is an excellent starting point, allowing you to sift through the diverse possibilities before homing in on anyone.

The driving force behind most dating sites is compatibility. There are inbuilt algorithms designed to ensure like-minded individuals are paired with one another.

For instance, if you were searching for one night stands, there would be no point in matching you with someone hoping to be led down the aisle.

You can get matched with someone appropriate

Despite that compatibility, no system is 100% foolproof and there is always the possibility you could end up being matched with an inappropriate partner.

Despite the algorithms and the natural inclination to swipe past people you don't like the look of, it is inevitable unsuitable singles will slip through the net and end up engaging in conversation with you.

You could very well reciprocate their attention, but when you meet for an offline date at some point in the future, you might discover you actually have little in common.

By far the best course of action would be to embrace online dating, understanding the flaws so you can reap the benefits.

With experience you will soon be communicating on a regular basis, safe in the knowledge you understand the negative signs to look for.

So why don't you sign up to QuickFlirt.com and see what all the fuss is about!